Surname Reagan - Meaning and Origin
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Rediscovering roots: An enlightening exploration into the Reagan lineage with the iGENEA DNA Test
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, one takes the iGENEA DNA test to delve deep into the history of their surname, Reagan. They find rich tales of royals and migration, while also connecting with distant relatives across the globe.
B. Reagan
read moreReagan: What does the surname Reagan mean?
The surname Reagan has Irish origins and is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name "O’Raogain" or "O’Reagan." The prefix "O" signifies "descendant of," while "Raogain" or "Reagan" is a personal name meaning "little king" or "little ruler." Therefore, the surname Reagan essentially means "descendant of the little king/ruler." This name started as a nickname for someone who portrayed kingly or noble characteristics and was eventually used as a surname. It is common in many parts of Ireland, particularly in County Tipperary. One of the most famous people bearing this name was Ronald Reagan, who served as the 40th President of the United States.
Order DNA origin analysisReagan: Where does the name Reagan come from?
The last name Reagan is most commonly found in the United States of America. According to the US Census, it is among the top 500 surnames in the country. Specifically, it is most popular in the South and Southwest regions of the US.
In it's highest concentration, the last name Reagan is found in the state of Alabama with about 4,200 people bearing the name. Texas is a close second with about 3,900 Reagans. Other states with notably high populations of last name Reagan include Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and Mississippi.
Outside of America, the surname has origins in County Kildare, Ireland. Some descendants of the Irish President Michael D. Higgins (or Reagan) have branches in France, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, there are pockets of Reagans in Mexico from Reagan's who have recently immigrated.
The Reagan's are an Irish-American clan that have historically held strong family ties. Many Reagans around the world are connected through marriage, family reunions, and even social media. This strong sense of community and history has helped the Reagan's to remain connected and successful.
Variations of the surname Reagan
Variants of the surname Reagan are Regan, O'Regan, Reaghan, Reagen, Reagon, O'Reagan, Raygan, Raygen, Raygon, and Raygun.
Reagan is an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic name “O’Riagain". This name is composed of two elements: the Gaelic word “ri” meaning “king” and the word “ceann” meaning “head”. The surname literally means “king’s head”.
As with many Irish surnames the Reagan name has experienced phonetic changes post immigration. The original Gaelic pronunciation of the name, O’Riagain, became modified when spoken in English to Regan, Reagan, and O’Reagan.
Being an Irish surname it shares its variants with many of the countries of Scotland, England, and Wales which had a high influx of Irish immigrants starting in the 12th century. Once in these countries the names began to change to various spellings due to the phonetics of the region and dialect.
In Scotland this surname often became Reygen or Regan, whereas in Wales it changed to Raygan or Raygen. I England some families adopted the spelling Reagen, Reagon, Raygon, or Raygun.
Although many of its variants and spellings tell the story of a long history of immigration and assimilation, the core origin of the Reagan surname remains an undeniably Irish one. Its variants still identify it as a proud Irish surname and link it to its roots.
Famous people with the name Reagan
- Ron Reagan: Ron Reagan is the son of the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan. He has become a political commentator, media personality, and author.
- Michael Reagan: Michael Reagan is the adopted son of the late President Ronald Reagan. He is a conservative political commentator and radio host.
- Patti Davis: Patti Davis is the daughter of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. She is an author, public speaker, and animal rights activist.
- Maureen Reagan: Maureen Reagan was the daughter of President Reagan and actress Jane Wyman. She was an actress and public figure, as well as a conservative activist.
- Nancy Reagan: Nancy Reagan was the wife of Ronald Reagan and First Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989. She was an actress, first lady, and a powerful political figure.
- Ron Reagan Jr.: Ron Reagan Jr. is the younger son of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. He is a writer, radio host, and former political columnist for The Phoenix.
- Nancy Reagan Davis: Nancy Reagan Davis is the daughter of the late President Reagan and actress Jane Wyman. She is a political strategist, lawyer, and philanthropist.
- David Reagan: David Reagan is the younger son of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. He is a public speaker, author, and former Deputy Assistant to the President.
- Patti Davis Reagan: Patti Davis Reagan is the daughter of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. She is an actress and activist.
- Ron Reagan III: Ron Reagan III is the eldest son of Ronald Reagan. He is an actor, voice artist, and educational media host.